Damage assessment of infilled frame structures using applied element method

The present paper employed the Applied Element Method (AEM) to investigate the damage patterns in high-strength concrete (HSC) frames under extreme loads. Unlike existing computational techniques, AEM offers a distinct advantage in accurately identifying structural damage in all stages of loading conditions. The research focuses on analysing the impact of displacement-controlled in-plane cyclic loads on single- and multi-storey reinforced concrete frames with and without infill walls. AEM analysis coincided with experimental results, theoretical predictions, and FEMA 356 code provisions, affirming a reliable examination of cyclic damage patterns. The study reveals distinct damage patterns, shedding light on infilled frames' superior in-plane lateral load resistance compared to bare frames. Interestingly, multi-storey frames with soft-storey configurations exhibited higher resistance to lateral loads than those with infilled walls due to premature collapse of HSC columns. The study highlights the crucial role of robust, strong infill walls in reinforcing slender HSC frames. The results provide valuable insights for designing resilient structures under extreme operating conditions, thus contributing to advancing structural engineering practices.